"History is little more than the register of the crimes, follies, and misfortunes of mankind"
- Edward Gibbon
About this Quote
This quote by Edward Gibbon recommends that history is largely made up of the unfavorable elements of human habits. He implies that the majority of what is taped in history is the outcome of humanity's mistakes, foolishness, and bad luck. This indicates that history is not necessarily a record of the favorable accomplishments of mankind, but rather a tip of the consequences of our actions. Gibbon's quote serves as a cautioning to us to be mindful of our actions and to gain from our mistakes. It also acts as a suggestion that our actions have effects, which our mistakes can be kept in mind for generations to come. By understanding this, we can aim to make much better decisions and create a better future for ourselves and for future generations.
"A lawyer without history or literature is a mechanic, a mere working mason; if he possesses some knowledge of these, he may venture to call himself an architect"
"We have our own history, our own language, our own culture. But our destiny is also tied up with the destinies of other people - history has made us all South Africans"
"It is humiliating to remain with our hands folded while others write history. It matters little who wins. To make a people great it is necessary to send them to battle even if you have to kick them in the pants. That is what I shall do"
